Korean War Vet, Great-Grandfather, Mendham Resident Dies at 85

The grass never grew under Paul DeBacco’s feet. He was an accomplished professional, and a busy and loving family man.

The Mendham resident died on July 10 after a short illness at the age of 85.

Born in Newark, DeBacco graduated St. Benedict’s High School and received his undergraduate degree from Seton Hall University before attaining his Master’s in Business Administration from New York University.

DeBacco served in the United States Army as a 1st Lieutenant in the Korean War. After his military service, he became a corporate executive in New York City for several companies, including Arthur Young, Johnson & Johnson, Celanese Corporation and Interpublic Group. His final stop was with Hallmark Cards in Kansas City, but upon his retirement moved back to New Jersey.

Despite no longer working, DeBacco was a busy man, sitting as a board member and working as a consultant for several companies.

DeBacco was a member of St. Joseph Parish in Mendham and the Mendham Golf and Tennis Club.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, six children, 12 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Paul’s life with visitation will be held at Bailey Funeral Home in Mendham from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 16. A funeral mass will be held Friday, July 17 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Abbey, Delbarton School.

Memorial donations may be made to Atlantic Home Care and Hospice, 465 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960; or the local chapter of the Wounded Warrior Project.